Enjoy the full lineup of NYC Film Invitational Films that were created during the week prior ON LOCATION in New York City!
The AAHSFF Film Invitational is the world’s premier, on-site student filmmaking competition - An authentic, real-world production experience for student filmmakers and video production programs - your chance to “crew up” and produce a short film in just 10 weeks. We believe that the best classroom is a film set, and our Film Invitational Competitions provide participants with an unparalleled chance to productively collaborate, improve their craft and test their skills while competing against student teams from around the world.
At the heart of all of our competition options is the pre-production process, enabling teams to fully embrace the most essential phase of production, and helping you create your best possible submission once on-set in New York City. Simply put: Competing in the Film Invitational is a team-building, tech-fueled, creative experience like no other!
2025 Competitions Include:
The Complete Film Invitational Experience
Claustrophobic Creativity
Welcome to the 2025 NYC Photography Challenge! This year, we’re inviting you to challenge your perception and explore the world of pareidolia—the phenomenon where we see familiar shapes, faces, or patterns in random objects or scenery.
The Challenge: As you explore the streets of New York City, keep an eye out for intriguing patterns, shadows, and objects that could spark a sense of recognition. Whether it’s the reflection in a puddle, a quirky cloud formation, or the way a building’s shadow casts an unusual face, capture these moments where you see something familiar in the unexpected.
How to Submit:
Create a photography project on FilmFreeway, fill out the submission form, and upload your best images to the challenge when it goes live.
Submissions Open: Monday, November 3rd, 2025
Deadline: Friday, November 14th, 2025 at 11:59PM EST
Winner will be announced on Thursday, November 20th.
Full Details HERE
Secure your spot and make the most of this experience with an Elite All-Access Pass, available now at hsfilmfest.com/tickets. Join us to capture the heart of New York City, one photo at a time!
This is your chance to share your unique 2025 Festival experience in a short video - 4 minutes or less. Document your journey to, during, and even after the festival weekend for a chance to win a swag bag and bragging rights as you compete against other festival attendees from all over the world.
We want to see what the 2025 AAHSFF looked like through your lens!
Be creative and share your unique story - 4 minutes or less.
Submissions Open: Monday, November 3rd, 2025
Deadline: Friday, November 14th, 2025 at 11:59PM EST
Winner will be announced on Thursday, November 20th.
PRIZE: (1) Elite All-Access Pass to the 2025 All American High School Film Festival ($350 value)!!!
Examples of some awesome AAHSFF Experience Recap videos!
